From Prototype to Production: The Journey to the launch of ATO - Auto Dash Display Kits
- Brandon Mohn
- 18 hours ago
- 4 min read
The road from an initial idea to a finished product is rarely smooth, especially in the automotive world where precision and reliability matter most. For the past few months, I worked on refining a dash display solution for Ford Police Interceptors. Pushing through countless hours of CAD design, 3D printing prototypes, and testing the finished products was no easy task. Now, as February 16th has passed, the "Late Beta" kits are finally ready to begin their print cycle for March fulfillment. This milestone marks a significant step toward bringing a new level of convenience and connectivity to Ford Police Interceptor enthusiasts, specifically those driving 2013-2019 "Utility" models.
Designing for Real-World Automotive Needs
The idea behind the ATO - Auto Dash Display Kit was simple: create a seamless, user-friendly interface that offers both wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. Many drivers want to keep their phones connected via Bluetooth for hands-free calls and music streaming, but existing dash kits often fall short in design and compatibility. I focused on making sure the kit would fit perfectly with as close to an OEM finish as possible.
The design process involved:
Multiple CAD iterations to ensure precise fit, durability, and printability
Testing different print orientations for the smoothest and strongest part
Ensuring easy installation without modifying the vehicle’s original wiring or dash
Each prototype brought new insights. For example, early versions had issues with durability due to a missed dimension in CAD, which led me to thicken the mounting hole. The goal was to maintain a strong, stable unit by utilizing the factory mounting clips and single 8mm top tray bolt, no extra hardware required. After redesigning several things, the Late Beta units have finally met the goal I was looking to achieve.
Prototyping with 3D Printing
3D printing made this project possible. It allowed me to easily produce physical models of the dash kits and test them inside vehicles. I spent hours in vehicles, checking how the kit fit and lined up to factory features. The tactile feedback from these tests was invaluable and allowed me to truly dial in a refined product.
Some challenges included:
Adjusting many contours along with print orientation to better fit print limitations
Refining the texture to somewhat match the OEM dash texture and mask print lines
Designing cable channels that keep wires neat, out of sight, and easily replaceable if needed
The iterative process took months, but each tweak brought the kit closer to a final product that meets the high standards of automotive enthusiasts.
Preparing for Production and Fulfillment
With the "Late Beta" kits ready, the focus shifts to production and fulfillment. This phase involves:
Finalizing manufacturing details to ensure consistent quality
Packaging design that protects the kit during shipping
Creating clear installation guides for users
The kits will be shipped by mid-March, and I am confident they will meet expectations. The feedback from beta testers has been positive, especially regarding the smooth integration with Bluetooth and the ease of accessing CarPlay and Android Auto.
One key feature that testers appreciated was the ability to maintain full control of the vehicle’s original systems while adding modern connectivity.
What This Means for Interceptor Enthusiasts
The ATO - Auto Dash Display Kit is more than just a gadget. It represents a practical upgrade for anyone who spends time behind the wheel, especially those who rely on their vehicles for work or long drives. The kit offers:
A clean, integrated look that complements factory dashboards
Reliable Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free communication
Compatibility with both CarPlay and Android Auto, catering to a wide range of smartphone users
Easy installation without permanent modifications
For Ford Police Interceptor owners, this kit fills a gap in the market. It adds modern tech features that vehicle owners want, at a price that doesn't demolish the bank.
Looking Ahead
The journey from prototype to production taught me a lot about balancing design, functionality, and manufacturing limitations. The Dash Display Kit is a product born from hands-on testing and a deep understanding of automotive needs. As the kits reach customers in March, I look forward to hearing even more on how they improve daily driving experiences.
If you are passionate about upgrading your vehicle’s dashboard with a reliable, user-friendly display that supports wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, then consider giving the kit a go! This launch is just the beginning, and I plan to continue refining and expanding the product offerings based on customer feedback.
For now, the focus is on delivering quality kits to early adopters and ensuring every installation goes smoothly. The months of CAD work and 3D printing prototypes are slowly paying off, and I'm excited to see these Dash Display Kits on dashboards across the country.
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